Tide Buzz: No. 2 Alabama (0-0) vs. No. 8 Michigan (0-0)

View full sizeMichigan quarterback Denard Robinson runs for a 15-yard touchdown during the first quarter of a 2011 game against Michigan State in East Lansing, Mich. Robinson boasts he could beat Usain Bolt in a 40-yard dash. With lightning-fast legs, Robinson has rewritten record books at college football's winningest program. (AP photo/Al Goldis)

The details:

When: 7 p.m. CDT

Where: Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas

TV: ABC

Line: Alabama is favored by 14 points

This game will determine ...

How highly to regard Alabama as a contender for a second consecutive national championship and its third in the past four years.

Three things to look for:

1. Trenches. So much of the hype has centered on Denard Robinson, Michigan’s dynamic quarterback, but it should center on Alabama center Barrett Jones and the Crimson Tide’s other standout offensive linemen. Alabama could manhandle Michigan on both sides of the line of scrimmage.

2. Discipline. Young players who want to make plays on Alabama’s retooled defense must not get caught out of position.

3. Depth. Pay close attention to Alabama’s frequent substitutions. Note there is little drop-off in ability. Watch the dividends in the fourth quarter when fresh Tide players are wearing down a tired opponent.

Key matchup:

Alabama outside linebackers Adrian Hubbard and Xzavier Dickson vs. Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson — Outside containment will be a key to limiting “Shoelace” on the ground. Pressuring him as a passer will be a key to forcing some ill-advised throws that could be up for grabs.

By the numbers:

1,041 — the number of yards that Fitz Toussaint rushed for last year. Michigan’s starting running back is suspended for this game. He will be missed.